The Counterfeit Attachment

"I don't like you hiding your true opinions to please those inferior to you in taste and intellect. Good sense is in short supply, and it is a pity to pretend you don't have any."

Read if you like:
* Clean Romance
* Enemies to Friends to Lovers
* Fake Dating
* Slow Burn Romance
* Well Researched Historical Details
* Great Character Arcs
* Part of a series, but can be read as as stand alone

Charity Radforde is a brilliant bluestocking whose love of scientific learning (most specifically botany) has convinced her that she would would prefer spinsterhood to marriage as it would afford her the autonomy to follow her passion for learning. Her domineering mother, however, has other ideas.

Edmund Glenhaven entered the church as his profession but his true passion is botanical science. He is attempting to find sponsorship for a scientific expedition to America.

After an awkward meet cute, Charity and Edmund find themselves repeatedly in company with one another. They hatch a plan to form a counterfeit attachment which would enable them both to spend time persuing their respective goals, rather than wasting time meeting prospective spouses at social functions.

I loved watching these two find not only their own strength but sharing it with each other. Their friendship and more develops naturally.

This is the second novel I've read by Holli Jo Monroe and I truly appreciate how well researched her writing is, from historical details to scientific ones. I felt transported reading this book.

Favorites:
* The habit of reciting taxonomy to help calm nerves
* Vivid descriptions of historical sites
* The sweet small gestures as well as the grand gestures
* Holli Jo wrote a strong intelligent FMC that isn't overbearing and perfect. She is brilliant, compassionate, loyal, and flawed.
* Edmunds Family (especially Kit, I really hope he gets his own story!)

Holli Jo Monroe has become a must read author for me in this genre. I can't wait to see what she writes next.

*I received an ARC of this book from the author, however, all thoughts and opinions are my own. I actually enjoyed this book so much that I purchased a physical copy as soon as they were available.

‘The Counterfeit Arrangement’
by Holli Jo Monroe is one of those stories you get fully immersed in. From the historical facts to the descriptions of London, and the clean romance to the counterfeit arrangement, it sure draws you in on an enjoyable read. I just loved all the well researched and beautiful descriptions of London sites that many times made me feel like I was walking through its streets. Loved it!

Charity Radforde returns to London after finishing the Mrs. Piper’s Seminary for Young Ladies in Bath. While there she enjoyed the freedom of pursuing intellectual studies. But when she comes back home her mother’s whole purpose is to find her a suitor and see her married.

Edmund Glenhaven also returns to London from his country parish. His ultimate goal is not to find a wife but to procure sponsorships to go on an expedition to America.

But when both of them collided “literally” then you are in for an amazing story…

“Miss, there are far better ways of catching a husband than literally throwing yourself at them.”
Her cheeks burned. “I was saving you!”

I also appreciated reading about botany. Being a flower gardener myself I was able to relate to the characters in a unique way. I knew what they were talking about being lost on the intricacies of a flower by observing the flora around them and visiting gardens for the sole purpose of studying the plants.

In closing, I recommend this book wholeheartedly if you like to read about the regency era with well researched historical facts and sites…
Exeter Change; Royal Society; Bullock’s Museum; London Botanical Gardens; Somerset House

Of enemies to lovers and fake engagements, and humor…

“And let us dispense with idle chatter. Save your breath to cool your soup, I have no intention of marrying.” 

“That is, you are a very singular—but I had not thought—or rather it would be an honor.” Edmund closed his mouth to stop the tide of nonsense. 
“How clearly you express yourself,” she said dryly.

“As she read, Mr. Glenhaven leaned over, his head and shoulder drawing close to hers….
When she glanced at him, she saw his eyes moving over the words.
“Is my reading inadequate?” she asked. 
When he gave no indication of hearing or moving away, she snapped the book closed.”

And romance…
“I want no part of a future that does not include you.” (sigh ☺️)

Truly, beautifully done Ms. Monroe! 💛

I received and eARC of this book from the author and a positive review was not required. All opinions are my own and I share them voluntarily.

This was an original look at Regency England. I enjoyed learning about the scientific side of things.

Charity was an obedient daughter who gradually comes into her own as she realizes what she truly wants.

Edmund was and endearing hero who was the perfect match for Charity. It was good to see how the complemented each other and gave each other support and confidence.

If you like clean regency romance you will enjoy this book.